Your garage door is one of the biggest and most-used parts of your home. You open and close it many times every week, maybe even every day. But when was the last time you gave it a little care?
Just like your car or air conditioner, your garage door needs regular checkups. Keeping it in good shape can help it last longer, work better, and save you money on big repairs.
Let’s take a look at why garage door maintenance is so important and how it helps you save in the long run.
Why Maintenance Matters
Your garage door has many moving parts. springs, rollers, hinges, cables, and a motor. All these parts work together to lift and lower the door safely. Over time, they can get dirty, rusty, or worn out. If you don’t check and fix small issues, they can turn into big, expensive problems.
A well-maintained door not only works better, but it’s also safer for your family. It keeps you from getting stuck outside or dealing with a broken door at the worst time.
Spotting Problems Early Saves Cash
Think of maintenance like a regular health check for your door. If a spring is getting weak or a roller is starting to crack, catching it early means you can fix it before it breaks.
Let’s say your garage door starts making a squeaking noise. That might not seem like a big deal, but it could mean something needs oil or is starting to wear down. If you ignore it, the part might break, and that repair will cost more than a quick fix would have.
Fixing a broken spring or motor can cost hundreds of dollars. But if you catch problems early, you may only need a quick tune-up, which is much cheaper.
Keep It Running Longer
A new garage door system can cost a lot. sometimes $1,000 or more. But if you take care of your current door, you may not need a new one for many years.
Cleaning the tracks, checking the cables, and tightening loose parts can add years to the life of your door. It’s a small amount of time and money now that can help you avoid buying a brand-new door too soon.
How to Maintain Your Garage Door
Garage door maintenance isn’t hard. Here are some simple steps you can follow a few times a year:
Start by watching and listening when the door opens and closes. Does it move smoothly? Is it quiet? If it jerks or makes grinding sounds, that’s a sign something might be wrong.
Next, take a look at the parts. Are the cables worn or frayed? Are the springs stretched? Is there rust or dirt in the tracks?
Clean the door and tracks with a damp cloth. Remove dirt, leaves, or cobwebs that could get in the way. You can also use a vacuum to clear dust from the moving parts.
Use a garage door-safe spray to oil the rollers, hinges, and springs. This helps the door move more easily and stops squeaks.
Lastly, test the door’s balance. Pull the release cord to disconnect the opener. Then lift the door halfway by hand. If it stays in place, it’s balanced. If it falls or rises, the springs may need to be adjusted.
Don’t Forget the Opener
Your garage door opener needs care too. Change the remote batteries once a year and make sure the opener is mounted tightly to the ceiling.
If you have a smart opener, check the app or system settings to make sure everything is working well. A working opener means your door opens when you need it, and keeps your garage secure when you’re not home.
Safety Features Are Important
A working garage door isn’t just about saving money. It also keeps your family safe. Modern doors have sensors that stop the door from closing if something is in the way.
During your maintenance checks, test these sensors. Put a small object like a broom under the door and try to close it. The door should stop and go back up. If it doesn’t, the sensors may need to be cleaned or repaired.
When to Call the Pros
While you can do basic checks yourself, some garage door parts are dangerous to fix on your own. The springs are under high tension and can snap if handled wrong. That’s why it’s best to call trained professionals for anything more than a simple cleaning or oiling.
At ALL STAR Garage Door Repair, we help homeowners keep their doors working like new. We know how to spot issues, make safe repairs, and extend the life of your garage door.
If you want help from the Best Garage door company Kansas City, give us a call. Our expert team is friendly, fast, and always ready to help.
Saving Energy and Money
Did you know a garage door in good condition can even help you save on energy bills? If your door has insulation and works well, it keeps hot or cold air from coming into your garage. That means your heating and cooling system doesn’t have to work as hard.
Over time, this can add up to real savings, especially in places like Kansas City where the weather can be very hot or very cold.
A Clean Door Looks Better, Too
Maintenance isn’t just about how the door works, it’s also about how it looks. A clean, well-kept door adds curb appeal to your home. It shows that you take care of your property and keeps your home looking fresh.
If you plan to sell your house one day, a garage door in great shape can make a big difference to buyers.
Final Thought
Taking care of your garage door is one of the smartest things you can do as a homeowner. A few minutes of maintenance can save you hundreds of dollars in repairs and add years to the life of your door. It also keeps your family safe and your home looking its best.
If you live in Kansas City and want help with your garage door, trust the team at ALL STAR Garage Door Repair. We are the Best Garage door company Kansas City to keep your garage door working like new.
